QHY QHY5III200M v2 Monochrome CMOS Planetary Camera & Guider
The Perfect Planetary Camera!
As part of a new generation of monochrome planetary guiding cameras, the QHY5III200M offers improved compatibility, increased internal memory, and most notably, higher infrared sensitivity! This feature-packed solar system imager is the ideal choice for capturing stunning photos of the neighboring planets, our Moon, and our nearest star. You can also utilize its impressive specs for guiding purposes as well, ensuring tack-sharp stars for your deep-sky imaging rig. However you choose to utilize this multipurpose powerhouse, QHY has you covered.
This QHY5III200M model is part of the 2nd generation of 5III multi-use cameras from QHY, offering top-tier planetary, lunar, solar, and guiding performance. Its high sensitivity in the near infrared can be attributed to the onboard Sony SC2210 sensor, providing between 20% and 50% quantum efficiency in the 700 nm to 1000 nm spectral line. This particular range of sensitivity is highly advantageous for imaging the planets and resolving intricate detail on the gas giants. Stunning data on Jupiter’s cloud bands is yours for the taking, as is the delicate atmosphere of Saturn! Furthering versatility, seamlessly join your favorite 1.25” filters onto the front of this camera with the built-in threads. This new front-end design also enables compatibility with C or CS lenses while filters are attached for even more imaging opportunities!
Capture Mars, Saturn, Jupiter, & Plenty More with Ease
The QHY5III200M is a highly capable camera perfect for those seeking incredible images of our solar system. Its NIR-sensitive Sony sensor paired with the high-end construction from QHY make for a system built for precision-driven astroimagers. Read on as we take a deeper look at this camera’s sensor, its terminals, and its key inclusions!
Monochrome Sony SC2210 Sensor
The onboard Sony SC2210 sensor is the foundation of this QHY5III200M camera, providing 2 MP of resolution within a 1920x1080 pixel array. As mentioned above, the Sony SC2210 CMOS monochrome sensor features extended near infrared sensitivity. This is highly beneficial for exposing intricate details for planetary imaging, particularly the atmospheres of the gas giants! The back illuminated design of this sensor furthers sensitivity, and when paired with the low read noise of 0.75e-3e, you can expect superb SNRs during your imaging sessions. Also featured is an electronic rolling shutter for exposure times of 15μs to 900 seconds. A full well capacity of 8Ke offers wonderful detail resolution, and the large 4μm*4μm pixel size is optimal for guiding purposes.
Power & Ports
Two ports can be found on this QHY5III200 camera: a USB3.2 Type C port, and a ST-4 guide port. The version 2 QHY5III cameras have been upgraded from USB3.0 Type B interfaces to the USB3.2 Type C. This interface lasts longer and offers greater flexibility. For the best performance, it’s recommended to use the official QHY USB Type C cable that comes within this package. The ST-4 interface has also been upgraded with a more universal ST-4 port. This makes it far easier to replace your cable if the one provided becomes damaged or lost.
Electronic Highlights
On the rear of this QHY5III200M, you’ll find a LED indicator to help you detect any functionality issues should they occur. This indicator light will remain unilluminated if no errors are present, and will flash to indicate an issue. Be sure to check the manual to determine the specific problem based on the flashing color. Another key inclusion is the addition of a 512MB DDR3 memory buffer built into this camera. As planetary photography requires high data transmission in a short amount of time, this memory buffer ensures stable image transfer and significantly reduces buffer time!
Equipped with Everything You Need
Within the box, you’ll find a host of additions to help get you started. Two cables are included: a USB 3.0 Type C cable and an ST-4 guiding cable. Also added are a couple of adapters. The 1.25” to CS mount adapter offers seamless integration with CS lenses, and the CS to C mount adapter furthers versatility. You’ll also find a filter coated front window and a IR850 filter to increase clarity and sharpness when imaging the night sky. A driver download instruction card and a focusing lock ring come standard within this package as well.
Astronomy Hub: Your one-stop-shop for Astrophotography Knowledge!
Our Gear Experts have compiled a wealth of information to help expand your astrophotography knowledge! Below you’ll find links to articles, videos and "how-to" guides. Just one more reason that our Astronomy Hub is a one-stop-shop for all your astronomy and astrophotography needs!
| Beginners Guide to Imaging the Planets |
| Undersampling and Oversampling in Astrophotography |
| 8 Things You Need to Know About the 8 Planets in Our Solar System |